The five-cylinder engine has been given improved induction kit and a revised exhaust system, which help to add an extra 45bhp to the standard car’s 300bhp. Torque goes up from 325lb ft to 339lb ft.

These modifications reduce the car’s 0-62mph time from 5.9 to 5.6sec. Ford isn’t quoting in-gear acceleration, but expect the most noticeable changes to come during from 30-50mph in third. Top speed stays the same at 163mph.

The car’s exterior is finished in a matt black paint unique to the RS500. Standard gloss black paint is applied in the factory, and then the cars are shipped to coatings specialist 3M’s site near Frankfurt, where a matt film is laid over the top. The gloss paint is retained on the lower grille and splitter, the rear spoiler and the rear diffuser. Brake calipers are finished in red.

Inside the cars have red detailing instead of the RS’s blue, and a plaque on the centre console with the car’s edition number.

Ford hasn’t yet released prices for the RS500, but it’s expected to cost around £35,000. The order book opens in May and deliveries are expected to start late in the summer, before production of the standard RS ends in September.

And do Ford honestly think that people are going to flood the showrooms to get a run out model which is being replaced by a better car?, they don't even offer insentives,if they think it's so special why aren't they offering track days?